This role is designed for public health professionals who want to strengthen epidemic intelligence and disease surveillance across Africa. The Senior Technical Officer will lead the operationalization of the Indicator-Based Surveillance (IBS) framework, enhancing early warning systems and supporting AU Member States in timely disease detection and response. This position provides professional growth, exposure to continental-level programs, and the opportunity to contribute to public health policy, surveillance strategy, and regional capacity building.
About the Organization
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is a specialized technical institution of the African Union (AU), established in 2017 to strengthen public health institutions across Africa.
Africa CDC supports Member States in detecting, preventing, and responding effectively to health threats. The institution prioritizes integrated surveillance, epidemic intelligence, laboratory capacity, workforce development, and emergency preparedness.
The organization’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan emphasizes proactive surveillance and integrated health systems, with IBS complementing Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) and laboratory diagnostics to form the backbone of epidemic intelligence.
Employees at Africa CDC gain exposure to multi-country public health programs, international collaboration, and professional development opportunities in epidemiology, surveillance, and leadership.
Africa CDC values teamwork, diversity, integrity, transparency, efficiency, and evidence-based decision-making. Women and candidates from underrepresented AU Member States are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Description
The Senior Technical Officer – IBS will provide strategic and technical leadership to operationalize and implement the IBS Framework across AU Member States.
Responsibilities include:
- Providing strategic technical guidance on IBS operationalization, including standards, case definitions, indicators, thresholds, and reporting timelines
- Supporting Africa CDC in developing guidance, tools, and training materials for Member States
- Facilitating integration of IBS with Event-Based Surveillance, laboratory systems, and digital health platforms
- Advising on alignment with International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), IDSR guidelines, and Africa CDC’s One Health and Digital Transformation strategies
- Supporting capacity building and mentorship of Africa CDC staff and IBS focal points in Member States
- Representing Africa CDC in high-level technical meetings, regional consultations, and partner coordination forums
- Supporting monitoring and evaluation of IBS implementation, including reporting and lessons learned
- Leading preparation of scientific publications, technical briefs, and presentations on IBS
- Performing other related duties as requested by the Division Director
This role is critical for strengthening early warning systems, harmonizing continental disease reporting, and supporting timely public health interventions.
Educational Qualification
Applicants must have one of the following:
- Master’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Surveillance, or a related discipline with at least 7 years of relevant experience, including 3 years at senior/expert level
- OR Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Surveillance, or a related discipline with at least 10 years of relevant experience, including 3 years at senior/expert level
Work Experience
- Experience supporting national or regional surveillance systems, preferably in Africa
- Practical knowledge of IDSR, IHR (2005), epidemic intelligence, and One Health approaches
- Proven record in technical advisory roles, guideline development, and training
Required Skills and Competencies
Functional Skills:
- Strong leadership and strategic thinking for driving continental initiatives
- Excellent communication, representational, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to build consensus and partnerships across multiple sectors and stakeholders
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Project planning and management for multi-country programs
- Ability to translate technical information into reports, presentations, and funding proposals
- Computer proficiency including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, statistical and analytic tools
Personal Abilities:
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks
- High autonomy with collaborative, team-oriented approach
- Adaptive, resilient, patient, proactive, and solution-oriented
- Commitment to Africa CDC’s mission, equity, and evidence-based action
Job Location
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Employment Type and Salary
Appointment for Limited Duration (ALD) for eleven months, including a three-month probation period. Renewal may occur based on funding availability, performance, and deliverables.
Salary: US$ 88,844.56 (P3 Step 5) inclusive of allowances for internationally recruited staff, or US$ 68,255.99 inclusive of allowances for locally recruited staff.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the African Union CV template, which is mandatory for submission. Applications without the AU CV will not be considered.
- Download the AU CV template (English or French) and complete it fully
- Upload the completed CV to the “Resume” tab of your profile
- Include an African passport and all required academic qualifications
- Submit your application no later than February 24, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EAT
Only candidates who meet all requirements and are shortlisted will be contacted for interviews.
Women and candidates from underrepresented AU Member States are strongly encouraged to apply.
This position provides an exceptional opportunity for professional growth, exposure to multi-country programs, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s public health systems.
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